Lester Black’s Post

With the recent approval of a cannabis lounge pilot program, Sacramento joins cities like San Francisco and West Hollywood in shaping the future of cannabis culture. These “Amsterdam-style” lounges will offer safe, regulated spaces for social consumption—and the economic and social impact could be big. From cannabis-infused culinary experiences to state-of-the-art smoking lounges, Sacramento is setting a new standard. But will this initiative address concerns around equity and safety? Check out our latest article for insights into how this ordinance ties into California’s AB 1775 and what it means for the future of cannabis. #CannabisIndustry #SocialConsumption #SacramentoCannabis #BeardBrosMedia

On Monday, September 30, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 1775, colloquially known as the “cannabis cafe” bill. We explore the details of this bill and the requirements it imposes on jurisdictions that wish to allow this type of use, as well as on consumption lounge operators, in our latest blog post. https://lnkd.in/gTsbGE6W #cannabis #cannabislaw #ab1775 #cannabiscafes #consumptionlounges

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill to legalize cannabis cafes just one day after vetoing a separate bill that would have allowed small farmers to sell their cannabis products directly to consumers at state-organized cannabis events. The author of the cafe bill, Assembly Member Matt Haney, emphasized that these cafes would create significant economic and cultural opportunities in the state. However, Newsom vetoed Assembly Bill 1111, which would have allowed small cannabis farmers to sell directly to consumers at events, citing concerns about regulatory strain and undermining retail frameworks. Cannabis advocates expressed disappointment over the veto, highlighting its importance for small businesses' viability in the legal market. Read more at the link: https://buff.ly/3N6M4lN #cannabiscafes #mjbiz #mjbizdaily #cannabisretail #California #californiacannabis #cannabisbussiness #cannabisindustry #cannabisnews #cannabisconnectinsurance #acrisure #acrisurepartner

Our Take on Iowa's Cannabis Beverage Regulations: The state of Iowa has set a benchmark at 4mg of THC per can for cannabis-infused drinks. While I personally believe there's room for more flexibility, the decision reflects the current political climate. If you're not satisfied with this policy, remember, you have the power to vote for change. On another note, our Hawk drinks have been flying off the shelves, thanks to our efficient manufacturing process. This got me thinking about pricing. What should customers expect to pay for these products? We're of the opinion that the market should strive for more affordable options to meet the needs of a broader consumer base. Let's keep pushing for a balance between quality, accessibility, and affordability in the cannabis industry.

A California Senate panel has approved a bill to legalize cannabis cafes, opening new opportunities for the cannabis industry. 🌿 This legislation, championed by Assemblymember Matt Haney, aims to allow on-site marijuana consumption at licensed businesses that could also serve food, non-alcoholic drinks, and host live events with local government approval. The move comes as a response to the industry's struggles with oversaturation, high taxes, and competition from the black market. By diversifying their offerings, cannabis retailers can boost revenue and enhance the customer experience. With places like West Hollywood already home to cannabis consumption lounges, this bill could significantly shape the future landscape of cannabis cafes in California. #CannabisIndustry #Legislation #California #WestHollywood #BusinessInnovation #CannabisCafes #MarijuanaMovement #TheHigherPath #ConsumptionLounge

As we continue to navigate the complexities of cannabis reform, industry organizations — including the Cannabis Beverage Association, the Hemp Beverage Alliance, and the American Trade Association for Cannabis and Hemp's Cannabis Beverage Council — must agree upon a unified approach. 🤝 Unity and collaboration are key: With the political landscape varying across markets, it’s vital that we move together, advocating strongly and setting standards that pave the way for a cohesive industry. Standards should aim to ensure safety, consistency, and ease of business across states, advocating for dosages and packaging that make sense for everyone. 💡 We are not just competing within the cannabis space but positioning ourselves alongside mainstream adult beverages, embracing the unique opportunities that THC and CBD-infused drinks offer. This strategic realignment emphasizes our commitment to not only advocate for, but also innovate within, the beverage sector. 🌐 As we embrace these changes, we invite our partners in mainstream distribution and retail to prepare for the integration of these exciting products into the broader market. Educate, engage, and ensure compliance to make the most of the burgeoning cannabis beverage opportunity. Let’s toast to a future where cannabis and hemp beverages are not just alternatives, but standards within the beverage industry! 🥂 Read the full article: https://lnkd.in/gUfkiCg5 #CannabisBeverage #HempDrinks #IndustryUnity #BeverageInnovation #CannabisReform #FutureOfCannabis

"A bill that would allow #Amsterdam-style #cannabiscafes in #California passed the state Assembly on Monday after a third reading with a 56-6 vote. The bill, formally known as #AssemblyBill1775, would give local #jurisdictions the authority to allow #cannabisclubs to make and sell non-cannabis food and nonalcoholic drinks. The bill states that food and drinks will be stored and displayed away from cannabis products. The proposed #legislation would also enable cannabis cafes to host live musical or other performances and add states that Under current state law, customers can consume cannabis at a #dispensary, but dispensaries can’t legally sell non-cannabis products like food and coffee, which is legal to do in Amsterdam. This isn’t the first time a bill related to #cannabiscafes has reached Sacramento. Last October, Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a similar bill, citing the state’s long-standing smoke-free protection for workers. However, this time around, Assemblymember Matt Haney (D-San Francisco), who introduced the bill in January, says the legislation Is all about fairness. Haney argues that cafes would be on a level playing field “for the highly taxed and regulated legal cannabis industry that is being forced to compete in California with a thriving cannabis black market.”  “It’s really about fairness and supporting businesses that follow the rules,” Haney said in a statement. “If we keep allowing unnecessary regulations to strangle California’s legal cannabis businesses, we’re just encouraging illegal drug sales and all of the problems that come with that.” AB 1775 is now headed to the state #Senate. It would need a signature from Newsom to be officially law." - KTLA

Cannabis beverages are a once in a generation opportunity. - To provide adults with harm reducing substances - To increase tax revenues for our struggling economy - To open up the consciousness of our anxious fellow humans that are fighting with strangers they don't seek to know What else am I missing? The category is going to continue to grow despite road bumps up the mountain. As it pertains to California, I advised the work wasn't done when AB 2223 was held in suspense. Similarly, it's premature to be gloomy about the political theater we saw Friday. Long term, I'm still as bullish on the category in California as I've ever been. The state can only ignore the will of the consumer and their tax revenue for so long. If you're a cannabev brand, you need strategic alignment with BevAlc today. This is your time. Big companies aren't moving without data and more legal clarity. They're all active or curious. You see the product/market fit already and can give them a head start. The cannabis industry & lobby doesn't have your categories best interest in mind, and neither does the hemp lobby. Neither has the power or money of BevAlc either. This is an uncomfortable truth I say to many of my friends, and I only say it because I care. I know because I tried to move cannabevs through the cannabis industry for years, learn some of the struggles in my interview with Lars Miller #drinkcannabis https://lnkd.in/gXB2FhzE

Imagine if Ohio were a giant cookie jar, and for years, only a select few with special keys could dip their hands in and grab the goodies—well-behaved, law-abiding citizens who meet all the bureaucratic standards. But starting Tuesday, the jar will be open to everyone for a more delectable kind of nibble: recreational marijuana. The Ohio Division of Cannabis Control announced this Monday that nearly 100 dispensaries are gearing up to sell green delights, both medicinal and recreational. It's like the grand opening of Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory, but this time, Sunflower and OG Kush replace Oompa Loompas. - Perhaps what we're witnessing is a brave new world where greenery no longer needs hiding. - Or could it be that lawmakers finally got a whiff of the fiscal brownies baking in the cannabis oven? Ohio's bold leap towards dual operation certificates kindles curiosity. What does this mean for societal norms and future regulations? The dispensaries of the Buckeye State represent more than just a black-and-white policy change; they are the initial brushstrokes in what promises to be a vibrant, albeit controversial, mural. There is a tone of solemnity, though. One has to wonder about the souls who faced penalization for what is now a recreational right. Tales of those who lost opportunities over a plant that's recently acquired a halo of legality twist the narrative with bittersweet threads. Rising from the smoke are powerful voices and communities reshaping not just an industry but perhaps, an entire social ethos. Cannabis is no longer the forbidden fruit but more of a garnishing herb, as Ohio sets a precedent that others will undoubtedly scrutinize and likely follow. Little by little, the stigma shrinks like a fading cloud. But no change comes without ripples—count on skittish whispers about societal impact: increased addiction, health, and safety concerns claiming the spotlight in city council meetings. The narrative spins—from the joyous dough of civilian liberty to the arduous kneading of governmental oversight. The recreational freedom rolling out under the auspices of Ohio’s dispensaries might serve as the spark for greater reforms. Whether these flames bring warmth or trial, cookouts or controversies will be the tale of the future we are eager to see unfold. So here, Ohio stands at the edge of epoch-making vistas and pitfalls equally great. Its dispensary doors, once lightly latched, are now wide open. Let's hope what walks through enhances—rather than hazes—our collective tomorrow. For those intrigued by broader mobility news, stay tuned with Dustin. https://lnkd.in/emdgfXDV #OhioCannabis #Dispensaries #RecreationalMarijuana #SocietalChange #LegalCannabis #GreenRevolution #boldmove #CannabisCommunity #FiscalGrowth #PolicyChange #FutureGlimpse